Settling in

Slowly I am settling in to life in Ranchi. I don't have much time to post, but I am going back to Kolkata next week, so I should be able to write more then. Since I didn't get much of an orientation, the CRs thought it would be good for me to come back with Rev. Minj and Liz when they go for the New Wine/New Wineskins meeting at MCC India. MCC is currently redefining itself. I guess that's the best way to describe it. They're reassessing the vision and goals of MCC as a whole, so all of the Asia MCC CRs will be in Kolkata for the week.
I'm glad for the chance to go back to Kolkata, since I don't feel like I got enough time there to begin with. My homesickness is not as bad as it had been, and slowly I've been getting used to how things work here. I just wish now that I would know more Hindi, and could go do things on my own. I'm not independent here yet, but I also know that will come in time.
About India...I was warned, and it's true: there are LOTS of people. I have enjoyed the time I get to out to the market. There are people everywhere, and these people are beautiful! Such clear, dark skin. I stick out like a sore thumb. Sometimes I feel like a celebrity with everyone staring at me as I walk by. I want to offer them my autograph. Don't worry, I behave myself. I've already bought fabric for more salwars and they are at the tailor's right now. I can't wait to get them back. Then I might not stand out quite as much (Yeah, right!)
I've found that the Mennonite church here in Ranchi is very similar to the Mennonite Church in the US. The same major principles are stressed, especially peace, justice and service. MCSFI works at promoting all of these through their various projects and programs. I'm only beginning to understand the scope of the work this office manages. And I'm excited about going along to visit different water projects in the rural areas, as well as accompanying other staff for trainings on peace & justice issues and HIV/AIDS awareness trainings.